The New York Knicks will reportedly pursue Kevin Durant in free agency. Here’s an optimistic take on why he could come to New York.
Teams outside of Oklahoma City shouldn’t confuse unlikely with impossible.
In the case of the New York Knicks, it’s only sensible to test the waters on signing Durant. Realistic or otherwise, signing a player of Durant’s caliber would push the Knicks directly into the realm of the contenders.
If only to rationally do one’s due diligence, the Knicks will reportedly attempt to sign Durant during the summer of 2016.
Wizards, Heat, Celtics, Rockets, Knicks, Lakers, Spurs and, yes, Warriors ... all expected to pursue Kevin Durant in free agency this summer
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) May 31, 2016
Likely or otherwise, it’s a rational pursuit.
Durant is a former league MVP with four scoring titles, five All-NBA First Team selections, and an NBA Finals appearance. He’s already built a Hall of Fame resume at 27 years of age, and will receive a max contract offer from any and every capable team.
The Knicks shouldn’t let the opportunity to sign a transcendent talent pass them by merely because the implication is that a pursuit will prove unsuccessful.
Pessimism runs in abundance in the Knicks community—likely a product of New York failing to secure a championship in any season since 1973. Durant is the type of player who can help restore the Knicks to glory, however, and that makes this a process that must be seen through.
Here’s a dose of optimism: on the strength of the the following five selling points, the Knicks could potentially shock the world and sign Durant during the summer of 2016.
Next: New York, Part I